BAKU: Asean, with its population of nearly 690 million people, is recognised as a critical region in the fight against climate change, says Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.
The Natural Resources and Environment Sustainability Minister pointed out on Tuesday (Nov 19) that the region is facing immense opportunities due to its rapidly growing economies, but these are tempered by unprecedented risks from climate-related impacts.
"It is now axiomatic to say that Southeast Asia is a global economic powerhouse. By 2030, our region is projected to become the fourth-largest economy globally, with trade growth outpacing the rest of the world and the third-largest labour pool driving progress.
"Yet, this success story is overshadowed by the stark reality that we are also one of the most climate-vulnerable regions in the world.
"The economic and human costs are staggering. Climate hazards could potentially impact up to US$130bil of our GDP by 2050, with much of the population facing severe consequences if global warming reaches 2°C," he said at the panel discussion titled "Nature, Tech and Collective Action: Advancing Southeast Asia’s Resilience", held during the ongoing United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of Parties (COP29).
Nik Nazmi also noted that four Asean nations - the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar - are among the most vulnerable globally, according to the 2024 Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative.
He cited the increasing risks from droughts and floods to the Mekong River Basin, a lifeline for millions across Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Unicef reported that nearly six million children were affected by Typhoon Yagi recently, which triggered floods and landslides impacting access to clean water, education, healthcare, food and shelter.
Nik Nazmi also highlighted the devastating floods in Penampang, Sabah, and the extreme weather events in Kedah and Perlis, Malaysia's largest granary area, raising concerns over food security.
He underscored the impact of Asean's climate vulnerabilities on global trade due to the region's role as an integral hub of the global supply chain.
He also emphasised the need to focus on nature-based solutions, technological advancements particularly artificial intelligence, and collective action within Asean to address these challenges.
The minister urged the Asean community to come together and develop innovative solutions that not only protect the region but also foster a sustainable, prosperous and resilient future for all.
